The world of education is undergoing a massive transformation, and at the heart of this change lies Artificial Intelligence (AI). Once a futuristic concept, AI is now a daily companion for students, shaping how they prepare for exams, attend lectures, and even perceive learning itself. But while AI has brought numerous benefits, it has also raised pressing concerns—especially in the context of college examinations.
In today’s era, students prefer to stay indoors, glued to their mobile phones, which have become their virtual classrooms. Their phones serve as both teacher and textbook, replacing the traditional methods of study. Even platforms like YouTube, once a hub for educational videos and lectures, are now taking a backseat. The students no longer search for a teacher to understand a topic—they now ask AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, or other smart bots for instant answers.
As a college lecturer, I witness a peculiar irony daily. Students enter the campus with heavy bags slung over their shoulders. But what lies inside? Not books, notebooks, or references—but packets of chips, chocolates, and large-screen tablets. The traditional classroom has taken a new shape. Libraries, once buzzing with discussions and page-turning sounds, are now silent halls where books gather dust, and shelves seem abandoned. AI has displaced the physical space of learning, and perhaps even the spirit of it.
During examinations, the scenario turns even more alarming. In most cases—yes, in more than 99% of students as observed—AI tools are their only source of preparation. Instead of revising from hand-written notes or textbooks, they seek last-minute help from AI-based apps. Worse still, a number of students secretly sneak mobile phones into the examination halls, relying on AI systems for instant answers. Proxy attempts and unfair means have become more technologically advanced, making it harder for invigilators to detect malpractice.
But amidst this technological shift, a question looms large—at what cost?
A significant number of students today complain of headaches, vision problems, and sleep disturbances. Many are now prescribed eyeglasses due to excessive screen exposure. Continuous dependence on mobile phones for study is silently harming their health. Eye strain, reduced concentration, and psychological fatigue are becoming common among students—yet this is rarely discussed.
So, who is responsible for this shifting landscape?
Is it the students who are too reliant on shortcuts?
Is it the teachers who couldn’t inspire classroom learning?
Is it the institutions that haven’t adapted teaching strategies?
Or is it the unchecked rise of AI itself?
As educators, we cannot ignore the power of AI, nor can we completely resist it. What we need is balance. Students must be guided to use AI as a supportive tool—not as a replacement for genuine effort and learning. Classroom engagement, reading physical books, peer interaction, and academic honesty must be preserved as essential elements of education.
AI is here to stay. But if we let it dominate unchecked, we risk turning brilliant minds into passive consumers of generated answers. Let us reclaim the joy of learning—not just for the grades, but for knowledge itself.
Dr Aasif Ahmad
aa********@***il.com